On December 5th, the Christian community in Pakistan was struck by devastating news. Pastor Kamran Salamat, a devoted servant of God who had already narrowly escaped death just two months ago in Islamabad, was shot and killed outside his home in Gujranwala. He had moved his family there, hoping to find safety after surviving a previous extremist attack. But in a heart-wrenching turn of events, it was in this new refuge that his life was cruelly taken.
The attack took place in the early hours of the morning, when Pastor Kamran, along with his daughter Numeer, was leaving home to drop her off at college. As they approached their car, an assailant on a motorcycle ambushed them, opening fire at close range. Pastor Kamran was struck multiple times—once in the right wrist, once in his left ear, and once in his lower abdomen. Despite his injuries, his daughter, in a moment of incredible bravery, used her father’s crutch to strike the attacker, causing him to flee.
Pastor Kamran was rushed to the Civil Hospital in Gujranwala, where doctors fought to save him, but by noon, he succumbed to his injuries. His death sent shockwaves through the Christian community and beyond, leaving his wife, Salmina, and their three young children, Ariel (14), Arina (11), and Numeer (16), to grapple with the unimaginable loss of a man who had given everything for his faith and his people.
What makes this tragedy even more painful is the fact that Pastor Kamran had already faced violence for his dedication to serving others. Just two months ago, he was attacked by extremists in Islamabad, but he survived the shooting, though it left him wounded. His commitment to the ministry and his community, however, never wavered. Despite the danger, he continued to preach, to lead, and to fight for the rights of Christians in the capital.
In the aftermath of the attack, Pastor Kamran’s brother-in-law, Pastor Shahzad Salman, shared with us the courage that Pastor Kamran had shown throughout his life, even in the face of danger. “He always said he did not care for his life while serving God,” Pastor Shahzad recalled. “And today, he has proved it.”
The brutal murder has reignited fears among Christians in Pakistan, already living with the constant threat of violence. Pastor Kamran’s death is not an isolated incident but part of a growing pattern of attacks against those who dare to stand for their faith in an increasingly hostile environment. The pain and loss felt by his family are echoed in the hearts of many who knew him and in the communities he served.
As the family mourns, the need for justice becomes more urgent. The police have begun an investigation, but the reluctance of local authorities to take meaningful action raises concerns about the pursuit of justice. Pastor Kamran’s killing is yet another reminder of the deep-seated vulnerability of religious minorities in Pakistan and the impunity that often surrounds these heinous acts.
In this difficult time, the grieving family has received some support from friends and organizations who are standing by them, but much more is needed. Pastor Kamran’s family is now left to face an uncertain future without their provider and protector. The emotional and financial toll is overwhelming, and they need our help more than ever.
We appeal to all who believe in justice and solidarity to offer support to Pastor Kamran’s family. Your contribution can make a significant difference, providing essential living costs, education, and other necessities for the children as they navigate this painful chapter of their lives. Together, we can ensure that Pastor Kamran’s legacy of love, service, and faith continues, and that his family is not left to struggle alone.
In the face of such loss, it is clear that Pastor Kamran’s final sacrifice was one of profound courage. Let us honor his memory by standing with his family, ensuring that justice is served and that his vision of a peaceful, just world for all remains alive in our hearts.